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Chapter 20: Empirically Informed Forensic Social Work Practice

Additional resources for this chapter

instructor material

DOI:

10.1891/9780826120670.0020

Authors

  • Grady, Melissa D.
  • Levenson, Jill
  • Prescott, David S.
  • Grady, Melissa D., PhD, MSW, LICSW

Abstract

This chapter helps forensic social workers (FSWs) understand how to incorporate research into their practices. It clarifies the terms associated with evidence-based practice (EBP), and demonstrates three different approaches that FSWs can use in their practice settings. The chapter focuses on clinical interventions within forensic settings. It provides a brief summary and overview of some of the intervention models used in forensic settings with established empirical support, along with a discussion of their strengths and limitations. The chapter highlights commonly used forensic intervention models such as risk-needs-responsivity models, motivational interviewing, trauma-informed care, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, schema-focused therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy. It concludes with a case example to illustrate how to use EBP in order to ensure that FSWs are providing interventions that are the best combination of art and science.